As it celebrates its 100th anniversary, Elstree Studios has announced it has reopened Stages 7,8 and 9 at its Borehamwood facility. Providing a combined space of more than 20,000 square feet, the three sound stages have provided a home for numerous productions, including Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Shining and Star Wars: A New Hope. More recently, the Netflix series The Crown was filmed at Stage 7.
The stages were officially reopened by EastEnders‘ actor Rudolph Walker.
Speaking at the event, Samantha Perahia, head of production UK at the British Film Commission, said, “The reopening of stages 7, 8, 9 here at Elstree Studios and the additional stage space capacity it creates, not only allows the region to build on its already established and impressive reputation amongst the international clients, but it also provides a considerable boost to the combined efforts of the British Film Commission, and our public and commercial partners, in marketing the region, and the UK more widely, globally as a leading destination for film and television production.”
Rebecca Hawkes, head of studios at Elstree, added, “These stages have hosted some of the most famous creations in film and TV history and the reopening sets the scene for this legacy to continue.”
Further improvement work is expected to take place at the site following the approval of £1.4 million for renovation by Hertsmere Borough Council. A series of events to mark Elstree’s centenary includes film screenings, open days, Q&A sessions and the UK’s first AI-driven film and TV immersive experience.
